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The caffeine and sugar in popular energy drinks do more harm than good to growing bodies.
Energy drinks are everywhere—at the store, in lunchboxes and on social media. They promise a quick boost of energy and are very popular among teens, but do you know what they’re really doing to teenagers’ minds and bodies?
Many teens rely on these drinks to power through homework, late-night gaming or early practices. Some even have gotten in the habit of drinking them even when they’re not looking for a burst of energy because they simply like the taste or think it’s normal to enjoy these drinks at any time. But while energy drinks might seem harmless, the truth is that they can have negative effects on teens’ physical and mental health.
How Energy Drinks Affect Teens
Energy drinks are packed with caffeine and sugar—two ingredients that might not mix well with growing bodies. A single can often contains more caffeine than a cup of coffee. For a teen who’s still building healthy habits, that caffeine jolt can lead to:
Increased anxiety: Caffeine can make you feel jittery or on edge. For teens, this can amplify feelings of stress and worry, especially during school or social activities.
Sleep problems: Drinking an energy drink in the afternoon can keep you wide awake at bedtime. Poor sleep can hurt mood, memory and school performance.
Heart issues: Too much caffeine can speed up the heart rate and raise blood pressure. In some cases, it can even trigger serious conditions like heart palpitations or fainting.
Seizures: Although rare, drinking too many energy drinks too quickly can lead to dangerous situations, including seizures.
Alongside caffeine, energy drinks are loaded with sugar. A single can might have more sugar than a candy bar! This can lead to:
Energy crashes: After the sugar rush wears off, teens might feel more tired than before.
Weight gain: Consuming too much sugar regularly can add empty calories and contribute to weight gain over time.
Dental problems: Sugar fuels cavities, which no one wants to deal with.
Are Energy Drinks Worth It?
For teens, energy drinks might feel like the answer to staying awake or performing better. Or they may just be a part of their normal day without giving it much thought. But the risks of energy drinks far outweigh any benefits. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that kids and teens avoid energy drinks entirely. Instead of reaching for a can, here are some healthier ways to stay energized:
Eat balanced meals: A mix of protein, whole grains, fruits or veggies can keep energy levels steady all day.
Stay hydrated: Water is your best friend! Dehydration can make you feel tired.
Get enough sleep: Most teens need 8–10 hours of sleep each night to feel their best.
Exercise regularly: Moving your body boosts energy naturally and improves focus.
Energy drinks might be popular or look cool, but their effects can be anything but positive. For teens, the combination of caffeine and sugar can lead to anxiety, poor sleep and even serious health risks. Instead of relying on quick fixes, building healthy habits is the real key to feeling great and staying energized.
